Initial therapeutic approaches for orofacial myofascial pain: three pilot studies

Irmgard Simma-Kletschka, Nikolaus Artacker, Michael Balla, Nikolaus Oellerer, Eva Piehslinger, Cinzia Fornai

Publications: Contribution to journalArticlePeer Reviewed

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Myofascial pain diminishes the stomatognathic function and hinders clinical diagnosis. Therefore, initial pain reduction is crucial before definitive treatment. Here, the clinical validity of non-pharmaceutical therapies, including the Aqualizer® splint, physiotherapy, and dry-needle acupuncture was comparatively assessed.

METHODS: Myofascial pain patients (n = 28; 20-65 years old) were examined through a visual analog scale, and intra- and extra-oral muscle palpation. Mandibular maximum opening and neck mobility were also evaluated. Changes in parameters through time were analyzed via the Kruskal-Wallis test, while the Friedman test and dot-plots were used for comparative therapies assessment. General patient improvement was represented via an isometric Principal Component.

RESULTS: The Aqualizer® and physiotherapy resulted in improvement of all parameters except for mouth opening. Acupuncture improved extra-oral muscle pain and neck mobility.

CONCLUSION: The Aqualizer®, physiotherapy, and oral acupuncture are effective initial pain therapies. Among all, physiotherapy provided the greatest benefits, followed by the Aqualizer®.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1-13
Number of pages13
JournalCranio : the journal of craniomandibular practice
Early online date13 Apr 2023
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 13 Apr 2023

Austrian Fields of Science 2012

  • 106018 Human biology

Keywords

  • Aqualizer®
  • manual therapy
  • oral acupuncture
  • physiotherapy
  • splint
  • Temporomandibular disorders

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